Tip Six: How to Close the Deal

Your hospitalist candidate has completed the on-site interview process and you've begun your wrap-up session. At this stage, it is best to provide the candidate with personal, direct and meaningful feedback.

Comments that you might incorporate into your closing conversation include the following:

• "We really like you and feel that the interview went very well."
  
• "We believe you'd be a tremendous fit for our hospitalist program."
  
• "Are there any issues that came up today that we should address?"
  
• What are your thoughts about the position and the organization?"

Closing the deal ultimately comes down to knowing your hospitalist candidate both professionally and personally. A physician is most likely to accept a position if it offers a better career path, a promotion or better lifestyle. Through candid conversations, you can learn about one's professional and personal goals and identify what opportunities your organization can provide over his or her current situation.

If the candidate portrays a positive attitude and likes the organization, position, salary and the community, you may want to ask, "If we were to make you an offer, what would you say?" If the candidate seems prepared to make the decision, you may want to cut and close. In that case, if you've done your reference checks, you’re home free.